06378, Stonington, Connecticut Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06378, Stonington, Connecticut is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.97 percent of the residents in 06378 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.66 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 06378 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 826 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06378. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,737 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 06378, Stonington, Connecticut.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Primary Care and Asthma Management in Stonington, CT (ZIP Code 06378)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and asthma management within the Stonington, CT ZIP code 06378, focusing on factors influencing patient access, quality of care, and the overall management of asthma. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to an “Asthma Score” assessment.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. In Stonington, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. High ratios, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms. Conversely, lower ratios, suggesting a greater concentration of PCPs, generally translate to improved access and more proactive care. Data from various sources, including the Connecticut Department of Public Health and publicly available physician directories, would be necessary to accurately determine the current ratio within 06378.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts asthma outcomes. Practices that prioritize comprehensive asthma management, including patient education, regular pulmonary function testing (spirometry), and personalized asthma action plans, are vital. Practices with specialized asthma clinics or dedicated respiratory therapists can offer a higher level of care. We look for practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and consistently monitor patient outcomes. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient communication between specialists, pharmacies, and patients is also a positive indicator.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. We need to analyze patient reviews, assess practice accreditations (e.g., recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and examine the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and patient education programs, providing resources on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Practices that are part of larger health systems, like Yale New Haven Health, often benefit from shared resources, access to specialists, and streamlined referral processes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma management, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. The adoption of telemedicine within 06378 is a key consideration. Practices that offer virtual consultations can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Telemedicine also facilitates more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms and allows for timely interventions to prevent exacerbations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data directly to the physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can significantly impact asthma control. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is therefore critical. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, provide on-site counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Access to mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce asthma exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life.

The “Asthma Score” for 06378 is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It is not a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment. A high score indicates excellent access to primary care, proactive asthma management, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as a need to address physician shortages, enhance asthma-specific services, expand telemedicine offerings, or strengthen mental health integration.

To improve the Asthma Score, the community could benefit from initiatives such as: recruitment of additional PCPs, particularly those with expertise in asthma management; implementation of asthma-specific quality improvement programs; expansion of telemedicine services, especially for follow-up appointments and patient education; and increased integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Public health campaigns to raise awareness about asthma triggers and promote early diagnosis and treatment would also be beneficial.

The overall effectiveness of asthma management in Stonington is dependent on a collaborative approach. This includes the efforts of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, schools, and community organizations. Patient empowerment is also essential. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, actively involved in their care, and able to manage their symptoms effectively are more likely to achieve optimal asthma control.

To gain a deeper visual understanding of the primary care landscape in Stonington, including the locations of physician practices, telemedicine availability, and the distribution of asthma prevalence data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing health data, providing a comprehensive overview of the resources available within the community.